What is the difference between cat5e and cat6 patch cable

In the end, the choice comes down to your application. It is often argued that it is not worth investing in cables with a higher performance, such as CAT6, since the current hardware in the network infrastructure does not require 10 Gbps speeds. But hardware gets upgraded over time; it is much easier to upgrade hardware than to lay in new cables. The price difference between CAT5e and CAT6 is not high and it is usually a good idea to opt for the better quality cable, thus preparing the network infrastructure and performance for the near future.

The facts show that an inferior cabling system can cause up to 70 percent of network downtime even though it usually represents only 5 percent of an initial network investment. Black Box Network Services offers comprehensive communications and infrastructure solutions. Find out what we can do for you:. Black Box Network Services is the world's largest independent provider of communications, infrastructure, and product solutions. Sorry, we were unable to sign you in.

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By continuing the use of the Black Box website, or by pressing the agree button on the right, you consent to the use of cookies on this website. More information. Shopping Basket Sign in Contact Us. When it comes to Cat5e vs. Cat6, the newer Cat6 standard offers better internal interference mitigation across the board, but some cables are better than others.

For maximum performance, look out for Cat6 cables with splines and shielding included, often meeting Cat6a standards.

Whether you're setting up a home network, replacing old cables, or looking to enhance your workplace LAN, Cat6 cables offer more. They can support faster data transfers, are typically more durable, and they offer better options for insulation against crosstalk and internal noise.

The Cat5e vs. Cat6 debate is one that's easily won by Cat6 if you focus entirely on features. That said, not all networks can support the higher speed of Cat6 cables. If your devices don't support 10Gb networking, using a Cat 6 cable won't be any faster than Cat5e. Your router needs to support it too, to take full advantage, so make sure that your network is up to scratch if you want the full Cat6 experience.

But Cat6 is entirely backwards compatible. So even if you can't get the full speed of Cat6, you can still use the cables. They'll just run at a slower rate. They will still enjoy the improved shielding, though. So, if you're wondering which to buy, Cat5e vs. Cat6, Cat6 is the better choice , especially if you want to future proof your network. Cable Matters carries cables built to both standards in various lengths, colors, and styles for every need — from simple connections between home routers and computers, to long-length cables for offices and data centers.

Before setting up your 2. Read on to learn more. What connectors do I need? Check out our in-depth blogs, white papers, and instructional videos about everything going on in the low voltage industry. Have questions? Our networking experts have the answers! Read Selecting the Correct Conector. Time to Terminate your cable, but how? Read Toolless vs Punch Down. Confident in your tools? Learn more about ours. Check out our Cable Academy. Manage your cable with ease. Learn how we do it.

Low-voltage tools and accessories should keep your networking installations clean and organized. Shopping and a bit confused about the differences between Cat5e and Cat6 Ethernet cable?

You are not alone. They appear exactly alike in many ways and have similar performance specifications just to add to the confusion. Is Cat5e still useful in ?!? Check it out on our website! Link in bio : Cat5e ethernetcable networking cableguy. Check out our Cat6 cable on our website! Link in bio : Cat6 Cat5e ethernetcable networking cableguy.